Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara state on Friday said at least 10,000 farmers across the 16 local governments of the state will receive improved seeds, chemicals, and fertilizers this farming season.
Speaking in Ilorin at the launch of third batch of distribution of farm inputs to local farmers, the governor said that the distribution was part of the administration’s efforts to encourage bumper harvest and promote food security.
He said that the state government had recently targeted 600,000 households, including smallholding farmers, in recent distribution of farm implements and other supports.
The governor, who said that farmers are the backbone of food security and sustainable
economic growth, added that, “This administration is committed to addressing the challenges in the agricultural sector. Farmers are recognised as the backbone of food security and economic growth. Hence, a rigorous farmer registration process has been set up, ensuring that only genuine farmers benefit”, he said.
“The first batch of the Special Rice Intervention Programme assisted 3,400 real farmers with quality seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals, resulting in significant increases in rice production.
“With the second phase (FADAMA NG CARES), 600,000 beneficiaries are receiving support, including boats, seeds, agrochemicals, power tillers, and grinding machines. This initiative aims to make agricultural productivity more robust and widespread”.
Governor Abdulrazaq said the government is also committed to boosting livestock productivity and market access through its Livestock Productivity and Enhancement Scheme (LPRES) campaigns in the state.
“By supporting farmers, food security is ensured, jobs created, and economic growth is sustained”, he added.
Also speaking, the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Toyosi Thomas-Adebayo, said that there are a lot of programmes the government has embarked upon to support farmers and improve farm yields in the state, commending Abdulrazaq for his purposeful leadership.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Sokoya Funke said the distribution of farm inputs for farmers means a lot in the agricultural sector, urging the beneficiaries to use the items for the purpose that serves public interest.
Abdur-rahman Akindele Ayuba, Executive Director, Centre for Community Empowermemt and Poverty Eradication, who spoke on behalf of other CSOs, hailed the government for engaging them in all stages of the exercise.
He urged the government officials to ensure proper monitoring of the recipients so that the inputs and other supports are used appropriately.